Match #76 · Brotherhood Of Scent

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Match #76

Match #76 begins the final three days of this tournament.

By the end of the weekend, I'll have completed 78 consecutive days of head-to-head matchups and, theoretically at least, I'll be able to declare my favorite bottle from my current collection.

Or can I?

More on that Sunday.

Today's elimination match features two of my final four: Bleu de Chanel EDP versus Prada L'Homme Intense. And regardless of what happens here, nobody gets to take away either of my fanboy hats. Chanel and Prada remain two of my favorite designer houses.

The Prada has been magnificent throughout this tournament. That powdery iris makes an immediate impression before the fragrance gradually darkens into amber, patchouli, sandalwood, leather, and tonka. It's rich, sophisticated, and beautifully blended, with a drydown that has won me over repeatedly during these side-by-side tests.

Bleu de Chanel EDP is a completely different experience. Citrus and ginger provide the freshness, while incense, amber, cedar, and sandalwood give it depth and refinement. I've called it the gold standard for blue fragrances throughout this tournament, and after more than two months of testing, I haven't found a reason to change that opinion.

There's very little separating these two. The Prada is darker and more distinctive. The Chanel is fresher and considerably more versatile. Both are mature, sophisticated fragrances that I'll happily continue wearing.

Today, by the slightest of margins, I'm sticking with my favorite blue fragrance.

Bleu de Chanel EDP survives. Prada L'Homme Intense is eliminated from the tournament.

And then there were three.

Tomorrow: Bleu de Chanel EDP vs. Tom Ford Ombré Leather.

The winner gets one final shot at Terre d'Hermès Eau Givrée.

And apparently I've decided that the last three days weren't stressful enough already.

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Match #76